Wednesday Evening Reception at the Audubon Aquarium

February 10th from 6:00 - 8:00pm

Name Badge MUST BE WORN for Entry

Mark your calendars for the 2026 Waterborne Symposium Wednesday evening reception. This is sure to be an unforgettable evening at one of New Orleans’ most iconic venues—the Audubon Aquarium. Located just a short walk from the Astor Crowne Plaza, this private reception offers a stunning backdrop of marine life, panoramic riverfront views, and an opportunity to connect with fellow attendees in an immersive and relaxed setting.
Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, beverages, and lively conversation as sharks, stingrays, and tropical fish glide just beyond the glass. This reception is the perfect blend of networking and New Orleans magic—an experience that captures the spirit of the city while celebrating innovation across the coatings industry.
This signature reception, sponsored by PPG, offers the perfect opportunity to unwind, connect, and celebrate another successful Waterborne Symposium in the heart of New Orleans.

Walking Directions from the Astor Crowne Plaza

Venue: Audubon Aquarium
Address: 1 Canal Street, New Orleans, LA 70130
Time: 6:00–8:00 PM
Walking distance from conference hotel (Astor Crowne Plaza)

Google Maps

Tuesday Evening Opening Reception

The 2026 Waterborne Symposium kicks off with a dynamic opening reception in the technology showcase exhibitors’ hall. Don't miss this incredible chance to connect with industry leaders, exhibitors, and peers!

When: Tuesday, February 10
Time: 5:00 - 7:00 pm
Where: Grand Ballroom D

Thursday Evening Women in Science and Engineering Industry Reception

Thursday, February 12 | 5:00–6:00 PM
Location: TBA

Celebrate, connect, and be inspired at the Waterborne Symposium’s Women in Science Networking Event. Whether you are exploring a career in industrial research or looking to expand your professional network, this session offers valuable insight and connections.

Are you curious about careers in industry? We’ll explore questions such as:

  • How does industrial research differ from academia?

  • What career pathways exist within the industry?

  • What skills and experiences are companies seeking?

  • How can graduate students best prepare for a transition into industry?

  • What are the common success factors and challenges to expect?

Join us for cocktails and a candid conversation with our keynote guest, Dr. Sarah Morgan.

About the Speaker — Dr. Sarah Morgan
Dr. Morgan is the Bennett Distinguished Professor and Associate Director of the School of Polymer Science and Engineering at The University of Southern Mississippi. She spent 14 years in technical and leadership roles at GE Plastics, including assignments around the globe, before transitioning to academia in 2003. Her research focuses on morphology control in bio-inspired polymer systems, high-performance polymers, and nanocomposites, with funding from the NSF, NIH, DoD, and industry partners. She currently serves as the Science Director for the NSF Center for Emergent Molecular Optoelectronics and PI of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Multifunctional Materials research collaboration. She is passionate about polymer education and mentoring the next generation of scientists and engineers.

We invite you to be part of this meaningful event dedicated to elevating and supporting women in STEM. Connect with peers, share experiences, and build relationships that spark opportunities and foster growth.

Student Reception

Thursday, February 12 | 2:30–3:30 PM
Location: Grand Ballroom D and Foyer

Elinor Coatings is a proud sponsor of the 2026 Student Reception at the Waterborne Symposium.
At Elinor Coatings, we provide novel solutions to corrosion, degradation and fouling. Our expertise in materials and coatings is used to develop products that aid in protecting natural resources. Elinor Coatings prioritizes diversity, as the best ideas are achieved with a team of individuals with different backgrounds and perspective

To learn more about Elinor coatings, please view our short video, or stop by to speak with us at the reception.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_QIovSX7Go